Brockholes is a 160-hectare former gravel extraction site located at J31 of the M6, strategically positioned in Central Lancashire within the city of Preston.

Brockholes unites a stunning natural environment with first-class facilities, to attract and impress visitors from across the North of England. It will meet the needs of a diverse local community as well as act as a catalyst to stimulate and sustain the economies of Preston and Lancashire.

The conservation plan for Brockholes is bold and inspirational. Habitat works have been underway since summer 2007, and the site is slowly being transformed into a spectacular microcosm of Old Lancashire.

Brockholes will be the gateway to Lancashire and Preston, its accessible location attracting local residents, wildlife enthusiasts and day trippers - over 250,000 every year.

Virtual tour by Mike McFarlane

What's happening?

For the past ten years, The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside has been working to secure this site of national environmental importance and restore habitats to their full potential. Brockholes forms part of a network of regionally and nationally important conservation sites.

With an assemblage of wetlands, ancient woodlands and grasslands, a major breeding site for over 53 species of bird, and some of the best wildlife features in the region, our conservation work on Brockholes and the surrounding areas reaches new levels of importance. The conservation plan for the site has been developed to allow space for wildlife to thrive, children to explore and enthusiasts to enjoy.

The floating visitor centre at Brockholes opened its doors in Spring 2011 and includes a purpose-built classroom so that local school children can come and experience wildlife face to face.